NCMC Events from Around the State… March 7, 2016

Don’t forget to apply for Free On-Site Consultation Service (FOCoS)! FOCoS is offered by NCMC to provide advice and guidance to small or emerging museums using the resources and expertise resident in established museums around the state. Recipient museums receive valuable feedback on their programs and operations, and the museum community and council are strengthened through the collaborative effort of professionals reaching out to share their knowledge of the field. Applications are currently being accepted for the Spring 2016 site visit. Visit www.ncmuseums.org/programs/focos/ to apply or for more information.

1). The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (www.ncdcr.gov) is proud to host a day-long Professional Development Day in celebration of International Museums Day on Monday, May 23^rd from 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.. Come out and network with colleagues, learn about national museum trends from DCR leadership and outside experts, and much more! An agenda with RSVP information will be coming in the next few weeks. Until then, make sure you save the date! For more information contact: Kimberly Kandros at kimberly.kandros@ncdcr.gov.

2). The High Point Historical Society (www.highpointmuseum.org) is pleased to accept applications for a paid Summer Internship.  The internship will run from June 6 – July 29, 2016 with a $1500 stipend paid in three increments. Funded with a grant from the North Carolina Museums Council, the intern will serve as student curator for the traveling exhibit Bills of Sale: Slave Deeds of Guilford County from the International Civil Rights Center and Museum, opening at the High Point Museum in January 2017. This Summer Internship is designed to be a learning experience, although as student curator, he or she will be expected to provide leadership and show initiative. The High Point Museum is conveniently located in the Piedmont Triad and offers a flexible schedule and free parking.  To be considered, applicants should email a résumé and cover letter stating interests and availability by April 1, 2106, to Marian Inabinett, Curator of Collections at marian.inabinett@highpointnc.gov.  Please be sure to include your two, most recent work or volunteer experiences plus the name and contact information of a reference from a relevant work or volunteer experience.  Also, one letter of recommendation from an academic or work reference should be emailed separately to the same email address. Preferred candidate will be a graduate student enrolled in Museum Studies, Public History, American History or African American History programs.

3). North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort (www.ncmaritimemuseums.com) invites you to Brown Bag Gam: The Beaufort Dolphins on Wednesday, March 9^th from Noon – 1 p.m.  Pack a lunch for the Brown Bag Gam during your lunch hour and join Museum Natural Science Curator Keith Rittmaster for an informal discussion about the biology, behavior, and conservation issues affecting the Beaufort Dolphins.  Bottlenose dolphins occur in Beaufort year-round but they’re not the same individuals and we’re learning a lot from photo-ID and stranding response.  Gam is defined as a friendly conversation between whalers or to visit with another ship while at sea.  Free Admission. No advance registration. Walk-ins welcome. 252.728.7317.

4). The Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University (www.moa.wfu.edu) invites you to visit their new exhibit, Musical Narratives of the Southwest Pacific Rim, on view from March 15 – August 26, 2016.  Highlighting the Museum of Anthropology’s collections of musical instruments, masks, shadow puppets, and dance costumes from Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea, this student-curated exhibit takes the visitor on a tour of the performing arts of the southwestern Pacific Rim. The exhibit draws connections within and between these island nations in geographical and artistic dialogue as it examines how music, dance, and theater intersect with storytelling, religious practice, gender roles, and modernization. Visitors are invited to contribute to the audio and visual components within the exhibit through hands-on music-making with select objects on display. Admission is free.   For more information, visit moa.wfu.edu, email moa@wfu.edu, or call 336-758-5282.

5). The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA (www.battleshipnc.com) announces its upcoming program; Power Plant on Saturday, March 12^th from 12:00 – 5:30 p.m.  Calling all Navy engineering enthusiasts! Join us for an in-depth program on the Battleship's power plant. Learn in detail about the ship's eight Babcock & Wilcox boilers, four sets of turbines and reduction gears, steam and diesel powered service turbo generators, along with electrical distribution, water distillation, and steering mechanisms. Our program features classroom presentations and behind-the-scenes tour of engineering spaces. Discover what it took to propel a 36,000 ton heavily armored battlewagon bristling with massive firepower and 2,300 fighting men across the Pacific.  The program is for adults only (ages 16 and up) and is limited to 32 participants. It is not appropriate for those who have difficulty climbing narrow ladders or over knee-high hatches. Wear warm, comfortable, washable clothing, sturdy, rubber-soled shoes and bring a camera! Registration and payment are due the Thursday before the event. $65 per person. $60 for Friends members or active military. Plus tax.

6). Hands On! (www.handsonwnc.org), the Children's Museum in downtown Hendersonville, invites you to Make a Kite! Tuesday, March 8^th – Friday, March 11^th. Design and build your own kite to fly in the March winds! Drop-in self-directed activity in our Party Room. All Day. All ages. Free with $5 admission/Free for members.

7). The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher (www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher) announces that dinosaurs take over Annual Egg Hunt!  Move over bunnies, watch out alligators. This year a much bigger animal is stomping down the trail at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher for the annual egg hunt.  The annual Alligator Egg Hunt officially becomes the Dinosaur Egg Hunt for 2016, in honor of the new animatronic exhibit, “DINOSAURS!” opening March 19^th. While the reptiles are bigger, the fun remains the same with children learning, creating and playing during this much loved tradition.  Aquarium educators introduce children to a live baby alligator and share fun facts about reptiles, both prehistoric and ones living today. Kids create their own dinosaur egg basket and search for candy-filled “dinosaur” eggs in the Aquarium garden, where six new animatronic dinosaurs make their home. The Dinosaur Egg Hunt is recommended for children ages 3-10 and limited space is available. This event sells out quickly every year. Children ages 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Dates and times are as follows: Saturday, March 19 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Friday, March 25 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and Saturday, March 26 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The program fee is $20 per child; $11 for N.C. Aquarium members. Preregistration is required. Register for the Dinosaur Egg Hunt online or by calling (910) 772-0500.

8). Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex (www.museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov) invites you to Story Day: Collecting Local Civil War History on Saturday, March 12^th from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  For several months now, the North Carolina Civil History Center has been encouraging North Carolina residents to share their family’s Civil War story. These stories can be submitted online at http://www.nccivilwarcenter.org/share-a-story/. However, for those who perhaps do not have a computer or prefer to tell their story in the tradition of an oral history, the Museum of the Cape Fear is hosting Story Day.  At the museum, computer stations will be set up and people can either use the computer themselves, or tell their story to a museum volunteer or staff person who will aid them with getting the story recorded. Participants are encouraged to schedule an appointment.  Appointments will be made for every 30 minutes between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The museum hopes that residents from Hoke, Harnett, Sampson, Moore, Bladen and Johnston counties will participate. The goal is to get 100 stories from all of North Carolina’s 100 counties. These stories will help develop exhibit content for the new museum.  Appointments can be made by calling 910-486-1330 or emailing leisa.greathouse@ncdcr.gov.

9). High Point Museum (www.highpointmuseum.org) invites you to “How Do You Know That? Evaluating and Presenting Your Sources (Basic Genealogy IV)” on Monday, March 14^th, 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at the High Point Public Library, Morgan Room.  One of the biggest problems new genealogists face is learning how to judge the sources they use. Are all sources created equal or are some more reliable than others? What is the difference between a primary and a secondary source? How do we evaluate information that we are getting and test its accuracy? How should we present our research in a responsible way that is rooted in our sources? A class no genealogist should be without. For more information, contact the Heritage Research Center at 883-3637 or ncroom@highpointnc.gov.

10). North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville (www.naturalsciences.org) invites you to their next Teen Science Café, “Lights! Camera! Action! The How To’s of Theatre Production”, on Friday, March 11^th! Whiteville High School’s Theatre teacher Julia Heckathorn, will discuss the different ingredients needed to present a successful theater production. Heckathorn will bring to life topics such as lighting, sound, costume and set design, and management in this Café, which takes place at Bower’s Auditorium on the Whiteville High School campus, 413 N. Lee Street at 5:00 p.m. [Note: This Café was originally scheduled for January 22,2016].  For updated information on Whiteville’s Teen Science Cafe program contact Vicki DiMuzio at vicki.dimuzio@naturalsciences.org, call the museum at (910) 914-4185, or visit the Whiteville Teen Science Café Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Teen-Science-Cafe-Whiteville-28643337153158/timeline/. 

NCMC Events from Around the State… February 29, 2016

1). The Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center (www.blackmountaincollege.org) in downtown Asheville presents a free presentation and book launch on Thursday, March 3^rd at 7:00 p.m. with Dr. Alessandro Porco, the editor and force behind a new book called Poems by Gerard Legro. It’s been over sixty-five years since Black Mountain College students Jerrold Levy and Richard Negro composed, circulated, and performed Poems by Gerard Legro on the campus of Black Mountain College. Long forgotten in an archival box, the previously unpublished collaboration is now in print for the first time. Dr. Alessandro Porco will discuss the history of Poems by Gerard Legro and read a short selection from the book.

2). Turchin Center for the Visual Arts (www.tcva.org) invites you to their newest exhibit, The Waterworks, which opens March 4^th at the Center. The sculptor Jennifer Hecker has been thinking about water a lot lately, particularly its disappearance.  In fact, every single work in her major show of bronze and glass constructions, The Waterworks, explores the fluid foundation of our lives, an element increasingly taken for granted even as the world supply becomes dangerously scarce.  In related events, Hecker will present a talk about the exhibition (March 2 at 7p.m., in the TCVA Lecture Hall), as part of the Turchin Center Lecture Series; she will be on hand for the TCVA Exhibition Celebration, March 4^th from 6-10pm. (This traditional event, which features live music, cash bar, food and more, is free and open to the public.)  Also opening on March 4 at the Turchin Center: the ever-popular Appalachian Mountain Photography Contest (AMPC), now in its 13th year, showcasing images by photographers who have steeped themselves in the local land and culture, and Pieces of the Puzzle: Outreach Programs at the Turchin Center, an exploration of how the Boone Community makes art.

3). The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (www.naturalsciences.org) announces the last of six presentations held in conjunction with the Museum’s current featured exhibition, Extreme Mammals. In the upcoming presentation, participants will learn why hippos are Africa’s greatest killer.   Though hippos are often cited as killing more people than any other animal in Africa, human-hippopotamus conflict has rarely been studied. Discover the real story of this conflict and why it is an important issue for hippo conservation, when the North Carolina Zoo’s Corinne Kendall presents “Africa’s Greatest Killer? Understanding Human-Hippopotamus Conflict,” at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on Thursday, March 3^rd at 7 p.m.  This lecture is $10, or you can add an exhibition ticket to your order and receive $5 off admission. Friends of the Museum members receive free admission to the exhibition. Tickets are available online (naturalsciences.org/extreme) or at the Museum Box Office (919-707-9950). The exhibition stays open until 7 p.m. on the night of the presentation; last entry 6 p.m.

4). The Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University (www.moa.wfu.edu) invites you to visit their current exhibit, Hina-Matsuri: Doll’s Day in Japan, on view now through May 27t, 2016. This mini-exhibit will focus on the Japanese celebration of Doll’s Day, or Hina Matsuri, on March 3 through the display of a traditional doll set.  Families often mark the celebration, which is also called Girls’ Day, by setting up a display of dolls representing the Heian period (794-1192) imperial court in their homes.  The MOA’s doll set from the 1950s includes 15 dolls and a number of other pieces that create the setting for the court.  Admission is free.   For more information, visit moa.wfu.edu, email moa@wfu.edu, or call 336-758-5282.

5). The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA (www.battleshipnc.com) announces its upcoming program; Wonder Wednesdays, on Wednesday, March 2^nd from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Ahoy teachers and home school parents! Try on helmets, raise signal flags, “text” using semaphore flags, tap out your name using Morse code, type on vintage typewriters, and more! Friendly, knowledgeable volunteer staff from stem to stern to help you have a grand time onboard ship. FREE with Battleship Admission.

6). The Museum of the Albemarle (www.museumofthealbemarle.com) invites you to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday on Wednesday, March 2^nd from 10–11 a.m. Celebrate the author’s birthday by reading a Dr. Seuss book at the Museum and participating in a hands-on activity. You can even dress as your favorite Dr. Seuss character! Please call 252-331-4021 for more information.

7). Hands On! (www.handsonwnc.org), the Children's Museum in downtown Hendersonville, invites you to Makerspace on Thursday, March 3^rd and Friday, March 4^th from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Makerspace is a new exhibit located in the STEAM Room at Hands On!. Children and adults are invited to use their imaginations to design and build bridges, Franken toys, robots, and more! Other activities include Magnet Wall Challenge and a Problem Solving Table. Makerspace will be open every Thursday and Friday from 2:00-5:00 p.m. in March.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. This exhibit is free with $5 admission/free for members and is sponsored by Duke Energy Foundation.

8). North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort (www.ncmaritimemuseums.com) invites you to Merry Time for Tots: Hatteras Jack on Wednesday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.  Preschoolers and their caregivers will hear the legend of the albino dolphin “Hatteras Jack” and learn more about the dolphins that frequent the North Carolina coast. This class will include a craft, story and game to practice following directions, review their colors and learn about themselves as they learn about dolphins.   Ages 2-5. Free. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. 252-728-7317. Program by School & Group Coordinator Christine Brin. 

9). Mount Airy Museum of Regional History (www.northcarolinamuseum.org) invites you to a Meet and Greet with Wayne Henderson and Friends, the Virginia Luthiers, on Sunday, March 6^th from 3-5:00 p.m.  This event offers a unique, small venue opportunity to see one of the living masters of the flat top guitar live and in person. There will be lots of great music and storytelling.  Also Luthiers Ken Hooper and Spencer Strickland will be on hand to unveil their hand crafted guitar and mandolin which will soon be added to our Luthier Exhibit.  Tickets are $20 per person.  Call the Museum at 336-786-4478 to make your reservation.

10). Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum (www.nchistoricsites.org/chb/chb.htm) invites you to join them on Saturdays in March for free women’s history focus tours. Discover the amazing women who lived, worked, and studied at Palmer Memorial Institute through “Women’s Work,” a women’s history focus tour.  These special tours will explore gender roles at Palmer, Dr. Brown’s role in the women’s rights movement, and the accomplishments made by Palmer faculty and alumnae. Tours are available each Saturday in March, at 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.  Tours also are available to school, civic, and church groups during regular museum hours, by appointment.  

NCMC Events from Around the State… February 22, 2016

1). The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville (www.naturalsciences.org) is hosting a Volunteer Open House on Friday, February 26^th from 5–6:30 p.m. Current and interested volunteers are cordially invited to stop by the museum to meet with staff, explore the museum and learn about various exciting volunteer opportunities. Light refreshments will be served. Volunteers are vital as the museum prepares for the busy year ahead. Volunteers are needed to assist in the Discovery Forest, Nature Playspace, iLab, special events, visitor services and much more. Benefits museum volunteers receive are training, professional development, access to behind the scenes exhibits, invitations to special events, annual volunteer appreciation banquet and a 15% discount to the museum store. Volunteers can be on a regular schedule or fill in as needed; positions offer flexible hours to fit every schedule. Volunteer applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. For additional information or questions, please contact Rhonda Billeaud at Rhonda.billeaud@naturalsciences.org or 910-914-4185.

2). The Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University (www.moa.wfu.edu) invites you to visit their current exhibit, Death at the Crossroads: A Dramatic Reading of Yoruba Art, on view now through August 6^th, 2016. The MOA’s extensive Yoruba collections are showcased in this exhibit, set as a visual narration of Nobel Prize-winning author Wole Soyinka's classic play, Death and the King's Horseman. The play takes place in colonial-period Nigeria, West Africa, and centers on the funeral of a Yoruba king and the British government's attempts to stop it. Visitors can trace the character arc of the play’s protagonist, Elesin, through an exploration of Yoruba masks, sculpture, clothing, tools, and musical instruments. The exhibit comments on the themes of the play, including visual/verbal metaphor, power and politics in society, gender roles, colonization, and what it means to lead a good life (and death).  Admission is free.   For more information, visit moa.wfu.edu, email moa@wfu.edu, or call 336-758-5282.

3). Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (www.secca.org) invites you to “Time Capsule Talk: Anthropologist Dr. Andrew Gurstelle” on Thursday, February 25^th from 6 - 8:00 p.m. in the Overlook Gallery. Investigate cultural artifacts, imagine the future and contribute to a Time Capsule with anthropologist Dr. Andrew Gurstelle during the Time Capsule Talk. The Time Capsule Talks are made possible by support from the North Carolina Humanities Council and Wake Forest Innovation Quarter. This series of talks is in conjunction with the exhibition, The Future We Remember on view until June 5, 2016. Andrew W. Gurstelle, PhD is Academic Director of the Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University, who maintains a research interest in the historical arts of West and Central Africa—sculptures, masks, musical instruments, metal castings, and beadwork.  This lecture is free.

4). N.C. African American Heritage Commission (www.ncarts.org/About-Us/NC-African-American-Heritage-Commission) invites you to participate in African American Monument Public Hearings in March.  The State Capitol Memorial Study Committee has set a series of public hearings to help determine how to proceed with this project. At the request of Governor Pat McCrory, the N.C. Historical Commission and the N.C. African American Heritage Commission will examine alternatives with respect to diversifying the memorials on the State Capitol grounds to address the underrepresentation of African Americans. The Public Hearing schedule is as follows:  Tuesday, March 1^st at 6:30 p.m. at the International Civil Rights Center and Museum in Greensboro, Tuesday, March 8^th at 6:30 p.m. at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American + Culture in Charlotte, Tuesday, March 22^nd at 6:30 p.m. at the Braswell Memorial Library in Rocky Mount, and Tuesday, March 29^th at 6:30 p.m. at Shaw Auditorium in Fayetteville. For more information, please call (919) 807-7290.

5). Asheville Art Museum (www.ashevilleart.org) is pleased to present a series of “Make It Last” workshops focused on the important topic of art conservation. The series is designed for collectors, artists and those who are curious about the inner workings of the art world, and includes demonstrations and discussions with Museum staff and guest experts. Participants will learn how to make art last now and for years to come. The workshop series is presented in conjunction with Vault Visible: Behind the Scenes at the Asheville Art Museum. To view the full schedule of workshops or to register, please visit www.ashevilleart.org/products-page/event-tickets/make-it-last-workshop-series. Members: $20 for one workshop, $55 for any three workshops, or $90 for all five workshops. Non-members: $30 for one workshop, $85 for any three workshops, or $140 for all five workshops. For more information please call 828.253.3227, ext. 122.

6). The Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts (www.bellamymansion.org) is hosting the following lecture: “Race and Racism: How Far Have We Come since the Original Bellamys?” with Raven Bruno on Monday, February 29^th at 6:30 p.m.  Explore the social construction of race throughout US history and the enduring consequences of racial definitions. Despite attempts to eliminate racism, deep seated institutionalized inequality of the past remains a powerful force in society today. This lecture will argue that it is not yet fair to examine people's lives without acknowledging the importance of race.  Lecture is free. Donations appreciated.

7). Mount Airy Museum of Regional History (www.northcarolinamuseum.org)  invites you to History Talks and Book Signing: Author Elizabeth Carlson, on Sunday. February 28^th at 2:00 p.m.  Ms. Carlson will discuss her newly released book "North Carolina String Music Masters: Old Time and Blue Grass Legends" featuring Tommy Jarrell, Doc Watson, Charlie Poole, Rhiannon Giddens, David Holt and others.  A book signing will follow the talk.  This event will be held on the 3rd floor of the Museum and is Free to the Public. Call 336-786-4478 for more information.

8). The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (www.naturalsciences.org) announces the premiere of “Antarctica 3D: On the Edge”.  Antarctica lives in our dreams as the most remote, most forbidding continent on Earth. Yet it is also a fragile place, home to an incredible variety of marine life along its edges — several species of penguins; tens of thousands of seals, humpback and killer whales; and dozens of different seabirds. Don’t miss the premiere of “Antarctica 3D: On the Edge,” a new film showcasing this land of sea and ice, plus a presentation by Antarctica researcher Steve Emslie, at the Museum in downtown Raleigh, Thursday, February 25^th.  The 40-minute film, narrated by Tilda Swinton with new music by Natalie Merchant, will be shown in the Museum’s WRAL 3D Theater at 7:30 p.m. and followed by Q&A with Emslie. Before the film, at 6:30 p.m., Emslie will present “Life on the Ice: Penguins Past and Present,” in which he will share 25 years of his experiences and observations while working in Antarctica.  Tickets are $5 to the general public and free for Friends of the Museum. Museum doors open at 5:30 p.m. Before the movie and lecture, you can learn about Antarctic wildlife and how the animals protect themselves from the cold, or enjoy beverages and freshly-popped popcorn.

9). The High Point Museum (www.highpointmuseum.org) is hosting a volunteer open house on Tuesday, March 1^st from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Enjoy refreshments, a Museum tour, and casual conversation at this informative event. Meet some of our friendly volunteers and learn how to become a docent for the Museum. Our docents are made up of High Point natives as well as those newer to the area.  Docents simply are educators. They are museum volunteers who give tours and offer information regarding the museum, its exhibits and historic structures.

10). Kings Mountain Historical Museum (www.kingsmountainmuseum.org) announces an upcoming event:  The Uncommon Bond of Julia and Rose, a Presentation & Book Signing by Ann Williams, on Thursday, February 25^th at 5:30 p.m.  Historian and author Ann Williams will present a program on her new novel, The Uncommon Bond of Julia and Rose.  It is the story of an unusually close relationship between a slave and her mistress on an antebellum Piedmont plantation.  In 1860 against the background of impending war, Julia and Rose, each from her own point of view, tells the story of her life.  Nearly every event of their half century lived together was encumbered by the ever-changing complex institution of slavery. This program is presented in honor of African American History Month. Admission is free!  For more information, please visit us at: www.kingsmountainmuseum.org or call 704-739-1019.  

NCMC Events from Around the State… February 15, 2016

1). The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher) hosts a day of discovery designed for children and adults living with autism and their families on Sunday, February 21st. Autism Friendly Day programs and activities are free with Aquarium admission. The dive program, scheduled for 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., will include an educator assisting guests in finding animals in the Cape Fear Shoals, the 235,000 gallon exhibit featuring sharks, rays and a green sea turtle. Visitors also can collect seven Aquarium passport stamps to guide them through the Aquarium and help identify animal-touching opportunities. A calm-space to help provide comfort, relaxation or a break will be available to families and their children. In addition, staff will offer three, hour-long programs throughout the day as a preview for upcoming autism friendly bi-monthly programs at the Aquarium.  The Aquarium hosts Autism Friendly Day with the assistance of the University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program to better serve the needs and interests of children and adults living with autism. For more information about Autism Friendly Day call (910) 772-0500 or email FFmail@fortfisher.com.

2). Historic Wilmington Foundation (www.historicwilmington.org) invites you to share in a very special part of Wilmington, NC.  2016’s Azalea Festival Home Tour will feature nine beautiful homes and one historic church, spanning 250 years of architectural history.  The Tour is the area’s largest of its kind a very popular part of Wilmington’s Azalea Festival.  Tour dates and times are April 9, 1:00 – 6:00 p.m., and April 10, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.  A ribbon cutting ceremony will kick-off the tour at 311 Front street at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday April 9.  All ticket holders are welcome to join Azalea belles in touring this magnificent home and enjoying free ice cream provided by Dairy Queen.  Tickets are $30 per person prior to the event and $35 during the event weekend.  Please call 910.762.2511 or visit http://www.historicwilmington.org/azalea-festival-home-tour/ for tickets and more information.

3). The Spencer Doll and Toy Museum (www.spencerdollandtoymuseum.com) will host the Black History Month's 2nd Annual Fashion Show on Saturday, February 20th. The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. including refreshments at the Spencer Women's Club, 100 Third St. Community Leaders Thomasina Paige, member of Dorset Chapel Church, Vincia Benjamin Miller, member of AME Zion Church of Concord and 2nd Vice President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and Brenda Neely, Owner of A Perfect Dress and member of Miller's Chapel AME Zion will be hosting this event. Thomasina will be demonstrating original African fabrics which show the beautiful patterns and how they evolved over time.  Vincia will be organizing the local models with Brenda and also showcasing church fashions. Brenda will be donating her expertise and time to show the newer fashions and prom dresses.  This event also includes refreshments, sponsored by Chic-Fil-A, and admission to the Spencer Doll and Toy Museum to showcase Black History Month exhibits from 10-3 p.m. All ages are welcome! We welcome sponsorships for advertising, door prizes and sponsorships. Attendees are encouraged to wear their African Attire.  To purchase $10 admission tickets, please call the museum at (704) 762-9359 Thursday- Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tickets are being sold now and credit cards are accepted.

4). Earl Scruggs Center (www.earlscruggscenter.org) invites you to visit their latest exhibit, Carolina Faces: The Photography of Don Sturkey, which will be on view until May 15, 2016.  A young, unrecognized Elvis Presley being turned away from the Charlotte Coliseum. The ladies’ auxiliary of the Ku Klux Klan in hoods and robes. Children living in poverty, the public moments of government officials, the grief of ordinary citizens who have lost their jobs, their homes, their loved ones. In nearly forty years as a photojournalist (1952-1989), Don Sturkey captured thousands of Carolina faces. While most of the photos in this exhibition documented the societal changes that took place over his career, many recalled everyday life in the Carolinas during that time. Regardless of subject, all of Sturkey’s photographs demonstrated his philosophy of “capturing emotion first” and making “composition and technique secondary.”

5). New Winston Museum (www.newwinston.org) invites you to their latest Salon Series, “Illuminating Disabilities: Friends or Foes: Winston-Salem's Shades of Gray” on Thursday, February 25th from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. This program will focus on how local institutions impact those living with disabilities. Panelists include representatives from The Centers for Exceptional Children, The Enrichment Center, Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, and The Adaptables, Inc Center for Independent Living.  Event is free  and will take place at New Winston Museum, 713 S. Marshall Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. For more information contact us at info@newwinston.org or 336.724.2842.

6). Charlotte Museum of History (www.charlottemuseum.org) invites you to their Black History Month Program on February 20, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. In commemoration of Black History Month, The Charlotte Museum of History is hosting a family program that will celebrate the history of African Americans.  The event is free and open to the public! To register, please call 704-568-1774 or visit us online at http://www.charlottemuseum.org/RegisterFree.asp.   

7). Greensboro Historical Museum (www.greensborohistory.org) invites you to “High Point’s Early Black Communities” with local historian and author Glenn Chavis on Saturday, February 20th from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.  Glenn Chavis has been described as a man on a history mission. He has written two books and more than 300 newspaper columns about High Point. Come hear how voices change history. Free admission.

8). President James K. Polk State Historic Site (www.jameskpolk.net) invites you to “Shaping the Tar Heel Sound”, a three-part series that will explore how African Americans shaped North Carolina music over time. Lecturers will explore how African folk music and European musical traditions mixed from the 18th-20th centuries to create the distinct sounds of the Carolina Piedmont and the Appalachian Mountains.  Lecturers will also consider how cultural exchanges between black and white musicians in the South shaped the evolution of popular music as we know it, and help develop musical genres like bluegrass and rock. All lectures will include audience discussion, and some will include instrument demonstrations and the chance to hear audio recordings. Series will take place February 18-20 , please visit www.jameskpolk.net for a full schedule.  Free Admission.

9). The High Point Museum Guild (www.highpointmuseum.org) continues their informative series of programs on the history of the Greater High Point area on Wednesday, February 17th at 10:00 a.m. at the High Point Museum. Mike Vaughan, Ph.D. will present a new twist on the Piedmont prairie with his research on the vanishing bison. This lecture is free and open to the public.

10). North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville (www.naturalsciences.org) invites you to “Meet Me at the Museum: Saturday Explorations,” a free family-friendly science and nature program offered the third Saturday of every month.  This month, the museum welcomes Martha Fisk, Coordinator of Community Outreach with the NC Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. Fisk will present “Animal Tracks and Signs” on Saturday, February 20, 1:30 p.m. Participants will meet live animals and learn how to use their senses to uncover the different clues they leave behind. This  program is geared toward ages 4 and older.  Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. For more information, please contact the Museum at 910-914-4185 or whiteville@naturalsciences.org.

NCMC Events from Around the State… February 8, 2016

1). Joel Lane Museum House (www.joellane.org) presents a talk on “The Inimitable Winston Churchill" by Elliot Engel on Friday, February 12^th at 7:00 p.m. at the Raleigh Moravian Church, 1816 Ridge Road in Raleigh.  Dr. Engel has dug deeply into numerous biographies to discover delightful yet virtually unknown details of Churchill's brilliant career. Using anecdotes, analysis, and LARGE doses of humor, Professor Engel will bring to life this twentieth-century giant. Admission is $27.00 per person, general admission; Advanced purchase is strongly suggested. For more information, please call (919) 833-3431 or email joellane@bellsouth.net.

2). Catawba Science Center’s (www.catawbascience.org) latest exhibition, Ocean Bound, takes visitors of all ages on a journey through watersheds to see how everyone’s actions on land affect our ocean.  This hands-on feature exhibit allows visitors to experience the science of watersheds and gain a new appreciation of watershed health by using four different themes.  Ocean Bound! is open now and can be experienced through May 15^th.  Using interactive exhibits, guests will explore how water moves through a watershed with a 3-D terrain model which begins with a movable "rain cloud."  Visitors will also discover aquatic species and habitats by piloting a full-size “submersible” from mountain stream all the way to the ocean, and gain specific knowledge of nearly seventy aquatic life forms and ecosystems.  Children are able to use a kid-friendly touch screen that shows both helpful and harmful behaviors that affect our watershed, and families can enjoy illustrated books about aquatic animals, conservation, and watersheds in the Riverside Clubhouse.  Through play, even very young children are encouraged to protect watershed and ocean health. Admission to Ocean Bound! is free for CSC members.  The cost for non-members visitors is CSC’s general admission fee plus $1.00.  For more information about Ocean Bound! visit CatawbaScience.org or contact CSC at (828) 322-8169.

3). Mount Airy Museum of Regional History (www.northcarolinamuseum.org) has exciting programs coming up in February! A five part Beginners Genealogy Class series will take place on Tuesdays, February 9, 16, 23 and March 1^st and 8^th from   6 – 8 p.m.   This course, taught by local genealogist Esther Johnson, is designed for the individual who is interested in researching his/her family tree.  Visits to the Surry County Register of Deeds office and the Carlos Surratt Genealogy Room at Surry Community College are included.  Each class is $5 per person, and free to Museum members.  Also coming up, the 6th annual African-American Read-In hosted by the Plaid Cloth Literary Society.  The Read-In will be held on Wednesday, February 10 at 12 noon in the 2nd floor conference room of the Museum.  To participate, one needs only to select works written by an African American and be prepared to read a poem or an excerpt from a book.  Listeners are also welcome!

4). Asheville Art Museum (www.ashevilleart.org) announces that award-winning WNC Student Art will be on view at the Museum until March 6, 2016.  Julia Briden, a senior at A.C. Reynolds High School in Asheville, has been practicing art since she was a little girl. She started out drawing, and then moved on to painting and sculpture under the guidance of her art teacher (and stepmom) Mary. Her hard work shows. Julia is one of 68 students recognized this year with a WNC Regional Scholastic Art Award. Visitors to the Asheville Art Museum’s free Holden Community Gallery have the opportunity to be inspired by the award-winning artwork of these talented students in an exhibition on view from now until March 6, 2016.  Out of nearly 630 entries, 132 works have been recognized by the judges and are featured in this exhibition. Julia Briden has had an exceptional year. Fifteen of her submissions received awards, of which five were Gold Key Awards. Five students, including Julia, were also nominated for American Visions, indicating their work is the best of the regional awards. One of these American Visions nominees will receive an American Visions Medal at the National Scholastic Art Awards.  The 2016 WNC Regional Scholastic Awards recipients will be honored at a ceremony on February 21st at 2:00 p.m. in the Diana Wortham Theatre.

5). The N.C. Transportation Museum (www.nctrans.org) presents an evening of elegant dining, combined with the romance of the railroad, and a new experience for Valentine’s couples. The museum’s newest event, Wine ‘n’ Dine On the Rails features a cocktail hour inside the museum, a leisurely train ride around the 57 acre historic site, and a three course meal served by a top rated chef aboard the train. The wines of Shelton Vineyards will be featured, along with the talents of Creative Gourmet Catering and Chef Matt Trexler. All train cars are heated and water and tea are available during cocktail hour and onboard the train. Wine will be served throughout the event.  Beer will only be served during cocktail hour. Although it is not required, the museum requests “nice dress” attire for those attending the event. Tickets are $75 per person for four top table seating.  Please note that those purchasing fewer than four tickets under this option may be seated with another couple.    Two top table seating is $175 per couple. This option provides table for two in the dining area.  Only six of these tables are available per ride.  Those wishing to purchase tickets can do so online at www.nctrans.org, or call 704-636-2889 ext. 224. Online purchase is recommended due to expected high call volume. Limited seating is available.

6). North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (www.naturalsciences.org) announces the display of winning images from Wildlife in North Carolina Photo Competition. For someone who has only been practicing serious photography for about eight years, Frank Ellison has done pretty well for himself. Ellison, 53, took first place in the Invertebrate category in the 2014 Photo Competition and now earned the top prize in the 2015 Wildlife in North Carolina Photo Competition. His photo and 30 other winning shots in 10 categories are on display at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences now through the end of July 2016.  This year there was an uptick in entries with almost 1,500 images uploaded. All winning photo­graphs may be seen on exhibit at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences as well as online at ncwildlife.org.

7). The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA (www.battleshipnc.com) invites you to two upcoming programs on Saturday, February 13^th.  The first, Firepower! Find ‘em, Track ‘em: Introduction to Fire Control (Part One), will run from 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.  The Battleship is a floating weapons platform, but the finest guns are of little use without the means to direct their fire accurately at the target. The morning program presenters will discuss the various types of fire control equipment (directors/optical range finders, radar, computers) and how main and secondary battery plotting rooms and the combat information center operated. Admission is $40 per person. $35 for Friends members or active military. Plus tax.  The second program, Shoot ‘em: The Guns (Part Two), will run from 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.  In the afternoon session participants learn about and explore the Battleship's 16-inch and 5-inch guns from the gun houses to the ammunition loading compartments; the 40mm and 20mm guns, and the weapons that they replaced (1.10 and 50 caliber guns). Admission is $45 per person. $40 for Friends members or active military. Plus tax.  Both of these programs are for adults only (ages 16 and up) and limited to 24 participants. It is not appropriate for those who may have difficulty climbing narrow ladders. Wear warm, comfortable, washable clothing, sturdy, rubber-soled shoes and bring a camera! Registration and payment are due Thursday before the event.

8). High Point Museum (www.highpointmuseum.org) invites you to learn how to make thread buttons, on Saturday, February 13^th from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Before plastic, early American women made buttons from whatever they had available—wood, walnuts, bone, even thread!  Let costumed interpreters show you how to make your own thread button. Instruction available on the half-hour.  Cost is $1 per button. Free for Historical Society members. Especially geared for ages 8 and up. Drop-in.

9). The Spencer Doll and Toy Museum (www.spencerdollandtoymuseum.com) will host the Black History Month's 2nd Annual Fashion Show on Saturday, February 20^th. The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. including refreshments at the Spencer Women's Club, 100 Third St. Community Leaders Thomasina Paige, member of Dorset Chapel Church, Vincia Benjamin Miller, member of AME Zion Church of Concord and 2nd Vice President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and Brenda Neely, Owner of A Perfect Dress and member of Miller's Chapel AME Zion will be hosting this event. Thomasina will be demonstrating original African fabrics which show the beautiful patterns and how they evolved over time.  Vincia will be organizing the local models with Brenda and also showcasing church fashions. Brenda will be donating her expertise and time to show the newer fashions and prom dresses.  This event also includes refreshments, sponsored by Chic-Fil-A, and admission to the Spencer Doll and Toy Museum to showcase Black History Month exhibits from 10-3 p.m. All ages are welcome! We welcome sponsorships for advertising, door prizes and sponsorships. Attendees are encouraged to wear their African Attire.  To purchase $10 admission tickets, please call the museum at (704) 762-9359 Thursday- Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tickets are being sold now and credit cards are accepted.

10). Hands On! (www.handsonwnc.org), the Children's Museum in downtown Hendersonville, invites you to come and help us celebrate our new chicken coop exhibit on Wednesday, February 17 - Friday, February 19. "Which Came First?" is an interactive chicken coop that allows children to count and sort eggs. Additional activities will include making your own chicken to take home and learning about the life cycle of an egg. These drop-in self-directed activities will be located in our Party Room and are free with $5 admission/free for members. For additional information about their educational programs and facility, please visit their website at www.handsonwnc.org or call 828-697-8333.

NCMC Events from Around the State… February 1, 2016

1). North Carolina Museums Council’s History Section (www.ncmuseums.org) and the Rowan Museum (www.rowanmuseum.org) invite you and your colleagues to a Museum/Historic Site networking event on Tuesday, February 9^th, from 9-10 a.m. at Rowan Museum located at 202 N. Main St., Salisbury, NC.  Compare notes, discuss upcoming events, share printed material, and more. No need to R.S.V.P. and refreshments will be available. Parking is in 2 hour increments on the street and there is a free lot out front.

2). The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (www.ncdcr.gov) invites you go behind-the-scenes at the conservation lab at the North Carolina Museum of Art during a live webcast on Thursday, February 4^th, at 11 a.m. Conservators on the museum’s staff will review the 21st century process of laser cleaning 16th century artworks, and explain the process of cleaning, varnishing and retouching paintings that may be hundreds of years old. Registration is required online at http://www.ncdcr.gov/dncrtv.

3). Greensboro Historical Museum (www.greensborohistory.org) invites you to enjoy music, food, and fun on Saturday, February 6^th from 1 -4 p.m. as Warnersville: Our Home, Our Neighborhood, Our Stories enters its last weeks on exhibition. Enjoy music by the New Zion Missionary Baptist Church at 1 p.m., followed by remarks and a proclamation by Rep. Ralph C. Johnson, words from the museum staff, and closing remarks by museum trustee and Warnersville Historical and Beautification Society leader James Griffin.  Visitors can also spend time with costumed actors who’ll be portraying people from local African American history. Among them are Revolutionary War soldier Ned Griffin, Warnersville leader Harmon Unthank, NCA&T educator Margaret Falkener, politician Zoe Barbee, and astronaut Ron McNair.  Warnersville: Our Home, Our Neighborhood, Our Stories will be on view through Sunday, February 14.

4). Turchin Center for the Visual Arts (www.tcva.org) invites you to metalsmith Julia Barello’s stunning installation Strange Gardens which opens Friday, February 5^th and runs until August 6^th, 2016. With her breathtaking new installation, a multi-layered environment of vivid, translucent color and swirling form, jeweler and metalsmith Julia Barello will transforms the walls of the Turchin Center’s Mayer Gallery into a symbolic garden, brightly blooming in the dark chill of winter. It will be the largest, most ambitious work by Barello to date. The show will have the traditional Turchin Center Exhibition Celebration (one of Boone’s most popular social events), on Friday, February 5^th, from 6 – 10 p.m.

5). The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (www.naturalsciences.org) invites you to chill out with them and learn about how some animals (and lemurs) survive winter.  Animals that hibernate conserve energy by chilling out; their body temperature plummets to near-freezing levels, heart rate lowers to three to five breaths per minute, and some can go up to 15 minutes without taking a breath. Join Duke University’s Sheena Faherty to find out how these adaptations, which would be deadly to a non-hibernator, allow these mammals to survive harsh winter environments year after year with no ill effects. Her presentation, “Chill Out! Hibernation as a ‘Cool’ Way to Survive the Winter,” takes place at the Museum of Natural Sciences on Thursday, February 4^th at 7 p.m.  Educators from the Duke Lemur Center will also be on hand from 6 to 7 p.m. to share photos and stories of their resident lemurs, as well as information on their lemur conservation efforts in Madagascar.  This lecture is in conjunction with the special exhibit, Extreme Mammals, which explores the diversity, ancestry and evolution of species ranging from huge to tiny, from speedy to sloth-like. Lecture ticket is $10. Add an exhibition ticket to your order and receive $5 off admission. Friends of the Museum members receive free admission to the exhibition. Tickets are available online (naturalsciences.org/extreme) or at the Museum Box Office (919-707-9950).

6). The Tobacco Farm Life Museum (www.tobaccofarmlifemuseum.org) will hold the 11th annual “Breakfast with the Commissioner” event, with Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler, on Friday, February 5th at 7:30 A.M at the Southern Farm Show.   During the event Dr. Richard Linton, Dean of NCSU College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, will be presented with the “Excellence in Agriculture” award. Tickets are on sale for $25 and include breakfast, the opportunity to hear firsthand the latest agriculture news, participate in acknowledging the “Excellence in Agriculture” and “Innovative Young Farmer of the Year” award winners and visit with North Carolina’s Agriculture leaders. Proceeds from this event benefit the Tobacco Farm Life Museum, Inc.  Tickets can be purchased by calling 919-284-3431 or by visiting eventbright.com.

7). Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex (www.museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov) will host Dancing Stories with April C. Turner, a highly energetic performance of dance, stories and songs from the West African culture, on Saturday, February 6^th, at 2:00 p.m. From Turner’s performance the audience will learn how West African dances and stories affirm community-building concepts of working together, integrity, and perseverance. Together, Turner and the audience will explore the language of African dance symbols. At the end of the presentation, audience members are invited to participate in playing musical instruments together as a community. The program is a well-rounded cultural experience focusing on the strength of art to inspire, unite and educate. The event is free and open to the public. More information about April Turner can be found at her website: www.lifeasartproductions.com.  For more information about the Museum please call 910-486-1330, follow them on Facebook, or visit their website at www.museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov.

8). The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher) announces a Kids-Only Valentines Sleepover at the Aquarium!  What’s not to love about a night with sharks and hearts? The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher transforms into a kids-only zone Valentine’s Weekend. The Aquarium hosts “Hugs and Fishes Valentine’s Lock-In,” for children ages 5 to 12, with two evenings to choose from Friday, Feb. 12 and Saturday, Feb. 13. Guests arrive at 6 p.m. to play games, make crafts and enjoy animal programs. When it’s time to settle down for the evening, the little ones will drift off in front of the Cape Fear Shoals with sharks, rays, schooling fish and a sea turtle lulling them to sleep. Trained Aquarium staff will supervise all activities.  Dinner, snacks and breakfast will be provided. Children must be comfortable being away from parents all night. Preregistration for sleepover is required. The cost is $55 per child. For more information or to register for this program, please call (910) 772-0500 or visit ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher.

9). Kings Mountain Historical Museum (www.kingsmountainmuseum.org) announces their upcoming exhibit, School Spirit, opening Saturday, February 6^th and running through May 21, 2016.  School Spirit will celebrate the history of education in Kings Mountain and the surrounding region.  This special exhibit will examine the evolution of local schooling from the days of the one room schoolhouse to today’s modern classrooms.  A collection of artifacts, archives, and photographs will illustrate the stories of the classwork, sports, band, clubs, and other school activities that shaped the citizens of this area.

10). North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort (www.ncmaritimemuseums.com) invites you to their upcoming workshop, “Build Your Own Skin-on-Frame Boat”, taking place from February 6^th - 9^th, from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Participants will build their own Skin-on-Frame ultralight boat in the Inuit style. These versatile and time tested boats can be fashioned in a myriad of styles including the North Alaska Retrieval Kayak, Greenland Style Sea Kayak, Pram Dinghy and Canadian Canoe.  After the frames have been pegged and lashed together from fir and steam bent white oak frames, the skin of 12-ounce Ballistic Nylon is sewn over the frame and coated with either varnish or paint to produce a light, tough and beautiful boat.  This 4-day course runs for four straight days.  Students also have the option to take the course on two consecutive weekends February 6 & 7 and February 13 & 14.  Course fee is $1,500.  Minimum age: 16 yrs. old.  All courses are limited in size.  Advance registration required.  Please call 252-728-7317 for more information or to register.  Class will be held at the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center at the North Carolina Maritime Museum located on 315 Front Street in Beaufort, NC.  

NCMC Events from Around the State… January 25, 2016

1). North Carolina Museums Council (www.ncmuseums.org) reminds you that it is not too late to receive the Summer Internship Award for Museums.  NCMC will provide one institution $1500 to pay an intern for summer 2016.  Applicants must be NCMC institutional members at the time of the application and internship. All application materials must be received by Monday, February 1, 2016.  To apply, send a letter of intent to the Student Affairs Committee that outlines: a specific project or area of focus for the intern and the desired final product or outcome of the intern’s work, core tasks for the intern (please be specific) that connects his or her work to the institution’s larger mission, the ways the intern will be integrated into the daily workings of the staff, and the methods of mentoring and supervising the intern.  In addition, you may include any benefits your institution can offer the intern, if applicable, such as housing, meals, additional funds, transportation, parking or other benefits.  Please e-mail your letter as a Word document or pdf file to students@ncmuseums.org.  Please note that the museum selected to host the summer 2016 intern agrees to publicly advertise the internship position for at least one month, preferably in March, and to hold an open application process. The advertisement must be emailed to the Student Affairs Chair so that it can be disseminated and posted on the NCMC website. Questions may be directed to: Jody Servon, NCMC Student Affairs Chair at students@ncmuseums.org.

2). The American Association for State and Local History (www.aaslh.org) announces that they are now taking nominations for the AASLH Leadership in History Awards. AASLH bestows annual awards to encourage excellence in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of state and local history. AASLH encourages all size institutions to apply, and to self-nominate. The awards recognize excellence for projects (including civic engagement, exhibits, multimedia, publications, public programming, and special projects) and individual achievement. All accomplishments occurring since October 1, 2014, are eligible. Submission deadline is MARCH 1, 2016. Visit http://about.aaslh.org/awards/ for more information. Have questions or need help with your nomination? Contact NC state representative RaeLana Poteat at raelana.poteat@ncdcr.gov or 919-807-7960.

3). The N.C. Museum of History (www.ncmuseumofhistory.org) invites you to the 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration.  Join the statewide kickoff to Black History Month at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh on Saturday, January 30^th, from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.  The 15th Annual African American Cultural Celebration will feature over 75 musicians, storytellers, dancers, chefs, historians, playwrights, authors, artists, re-enactors and more. Admission is free for this family festival, named a “Top 20 Event” in 2015 by the Southeast Tourism Society. This year’s African American Cultural Celebration will focus on the theme “Civil Rights — March On!” For more information about the event or the N.C. Museum of History, please call 919-807-7900 or visit www.ncmuseumofhistory.org.

4). North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (www.naturalsciences.org) announces that Sir Walter Wally will make his official weather prediction on Tuesday, February 2^nd! Ask anyone around the Triangle and they’d say winter took its sweet time coming, but it has finally arrived. The burning question is how long will it stick around? Well, that’s for Sir Walter Wally to decide and he’ll do just that during the 20th annual Groundhog Day celebration on Tuesday, February 2, on Bicentennial Plaza in front of the Museum! Judging from his track record over the last 15-years, Wally tends to favor long winters, but you never know! The day’s activities kick off at 9 a.m. and run through 1 p.m. The shadow ceremony where he’ll make his prediction begins promptly at noon.  For more information about Groundhog Day, please contact Miranda Dowdy at miranda.dowdy@naturalsciences.org or 919.707.9885.

5). The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (www.blowingrockmuseum.org) announces that the family music and theater series Mini Matinees: Wonders and Woodwinds, has been rescheduled due to winter weather. The new date is Sunday, January 31^st, at 2 p.m. For more information on the event, please visit www.BlowingRockMuseum.org or call 828-295-9099.

6). Mount Airy Museum of Regional History (www.northcarolinamuseum.org) invites you to the Genealogy and Family History Swap Meet on Saturday, January 30^th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Sponsored by the Mt. Airy Museum of Regional History and Surry County Genealogical Association, this FREE swap meet is open to anyone interested in genealogy especially to those who have been in a Beginners Genealogy Class sponsored by the Museum and taught by Esther Johnson. Those connected with a History or Genealogy Group are invited to come and set up for this Swap Meet where you can advertise your group and SELL any of your group’s books, maps etc. All authors are also invited to come and sell books. Everyone can bring their genealogy to display and share so others can make connections and find new family information. Laptops are welcome. Browsers are welcome!  For additional information please contact Esther Johnson by phone at 336-831-6437 or by email at epdj1@triad.rr.com.

7). Weatherspoon Art Museum at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (www.weatherspoon.uncg.edu) is very pleased to present the exhibition Colossus – Rosemarie Fiore: Falk Visiting Artist which is on view until April 17, 2016.  Inventive mechanics, choreographed performance, and chance surprises come together in the work of Rosemarie Fiore. For the past fifteen years, the artist has been painting with colored smoke fireworks. Unlike the gunpowder based explosives frequently associated with the term firework, these silent devices release plumes of bright pigments, rather than colored flames.  Fiore’s paintings result from the combination of direction and chance—she selects the color of smoke canister and steers its release, but variances in heat, air current, and rates of combustion ensure that its marks defy prediction.  As the Spring 2016 Falk Visiting Artist at the Weatherspoon and the Art Department at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Fiore will present a lecture about her work and meet with MFA graduate students. Special thanks to Christopher Thomas, Studio Foundations Coordinator, Department of Art, UNCG and the 2014/15 Falk Visiting Artist Committee.

8). Greensboro Science Center (www.greensboroscience.org) announces that Pajama Jam has been rescheduled. Pajama Jam, originally scheduled for Friday, January 22 has been postponed to Thursday, March 24. Any tickets that have already been purchased will be honored on this date. Additional tickets for this new date will be available soon. Due to winter weather, the Greensboro Science Center had to be closed Friday, January 22. Although they were not open to visitors, their talented and dedicated team was on site - as they are each day - caring for their animals and exhibits.To keep informed of future closings and delays, or just to see some pictures of their snow-covered zoo, like them on Facebook or check their website for updates.

9). Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex (www.museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov) announces the 15th Annual Civil War Quiz Bowl. Are you a fan of game shows but can’t travel to Hollywood to be part of a “live studio audience?” Consider attending the Museum of the Cape Fear’s 15th Annual Civil War Quiz Bowl on Thursday, January 28^th, starting at 7:00 p.m. Join us as a contestant or spectator in the Pate Room of the Headquarters Library.  The quiz bowl is like a game show. Contestants are asked questions by the host, Jim Greathouse, who founded the program 15 years ago while employed at the Museum of the Cape Fear. Contestants choose from one of 14 categories. They are asked a question from that category. If they answer correctly, of course they remain in the game. If they answer incorrectly they receive a strike. Three strikes and they’re out. Winners are chosen among the last contestants remaining in two age groups: 16 and under for the youth category and 17 and up as the adult category. Their prize? A gift card to spend on more Civil War books.  If you are interested in being a contestant you can call the museum at 910/486-1330 to register, or, for the first time, people can register online at  http://museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov/Events. Spectators are welcome!

10). Hands On! (www.handsonwnc.org), a Child's Gallery in Hendersonville, is pleased to announce the opening of a new exhibit, Makerspace. Makerspaces are mentor-led learning environments where children use real materials and tools to encourage curiosity. Guests tinker, repurpose, upcycle, take apart and put back together to make a creation or discovery all their own. These programs strengthen community-based learning, particularly for critical thinking, problem solving and engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Makerspace at Hands On! will take place in the STEAM Room, located just outside the Main Street museum entrance. Children and adults are invited to use their imaginations to design and build bridges, Franken toys, robots, and more! Other activities include a Magnet Wall Challenge and a Problem Solving Table. Makerspace will be open every Thursday and Friday from 2:00-5:00 p.m. in February and March.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. This exhibit is free with $5 admission/free for members. Group rates are available. Makerspace at Hands On! is sponsored by Duke Energy Foundation.